These Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect sweet treat to enjoy any time. With a rich and creamy peanut butter center and a smooth chocolate coating, they are the ideal combination of sweet and salty. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for parties, holidays, or a simple snack. They are easy to make, require no baking, and are sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: Approximately 36 balls
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (375 g) creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
- 2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
Directions:
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously until a firm dough forms.
- Shape the Balls:
- Take small portions of the peanut butter dough and roll them into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Coat the Balls:
- Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
- Return the coated balls to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to harden.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert at holiday parties.
- Pair with a glass of milk or coffee for a tasty snack.
- Enjoy as an after-dinner treat.
- Serve at bake sales or potlucks.
- Gift them in a mason jar for a personalized present.
Cooking Tips:
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture, or crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Be sure the butter is softened before mixing to create a smoother dough.
- If the peanut butter dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before rolling into balls.
- You can drizzle the melted chocolate over the balls instead of dipping them if you prefer.
- If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Peanut Butter: A good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like vitamin E, niacin, and folate.
- Chocolate: Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and can improve heart health.
- Butter: Adds flavor and richness, providing vitamin A and healthy fats when used in moderation.
Dietary Information:
- Dietary Restrictions: Gluten-free, vegetarian
- Suitable for: Those looking for a quick and easy dessert, peanut butter lovers, and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, 1 ball):
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 70mg
Storage:
- Store the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These chocolate-covered peanut butter balls are a crowd-pleaser that require minimal effort.
- The combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate is irresistible.
- They are perfect for those with a sweet tooth and great for making in bulk.
- You can customize them with different types of chocolate or even roll them in chopped nuts for added texture.
Conclusion:
These chocolate-covered peanut butter balls are an easy, no-bake dessert that delivers on taste. With a perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. They are quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for any occasion. Whether for a holiday or just a snack, these treats will never disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture. - Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. - Do I need to chill the balls?
Yes, chilling is essential to set the chocolate coating and firm up the balls. - Can I freeze these peanut butter balls?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw for a few minutes before serving. - How do I make these balls vegan?
Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make the recipe vegan-friendly. - How can I make these less sweet?
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use a dark chocolate coating for a less sweet flavor. - Can I add nuts to the peanut butter mixture?
Yes, adding chopped peanuts or other nuts is a great way to add texture and flavor. - How long do these balls stay fresh?
They will stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator. - Can I make the peanut butter balls bigger or smaller?
Yes, you can adjust the size, but keep in mind that the nutrition information will vary. - What can I use instead of coconut oil?
Vegetable oil or any neutral oil works as a substitute for coconut oil.